Fall Deeply In Love With Your Home With Haskell Harris
My guest today is Haskell Harris, the style director at the lifestyle magazine Garden and Gun and author of her first book, 'The House Romantic.' In our conversation, we explore Haskell's philosophy on creating a meaningful and beautiful home, which aligns closely with my Slow Style philosophy. Haskell shares insights from her book, emphasizing the importance of infusing homes with items that hold personal meaning, such as heirlooms and cherished books. We also discuss the interplay of different styles, the value of investing in quality linens, and the significance of incorporating old pieces to add character. Haskell talks about her approach to maintaining authenticity in home design, respecting the original features of a house, and bringing in personal stories and elements from past homes. We touch on the importance of gardens and natural elements in home design and how Haskell integrates these into her living spaces. Lastly, Haskell shares updates on her current home projects, including a newly finished bed nook in her office and a faux-painted living room, highlighting her ongoing love for creative home decor.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
When I started reading *The House Romantic*, I felt an immediate connection to Haskell’s philosophy. Her thoughts on what makes a home beautiful and meaningful align perfectly with my own Slow Style philosophy. I felt like I had met a kindred spirit, and I was excited to share our conversation with you.
Infusing Meaning into the Home
We began by discussing the book’s first chapter, "Meaning." Haskell emphasized that conjuring meaning in a home isn’t about the volume of things but rather the essence of very specific art, books, and heirlooms, and how to display them.
Personal Stories and Heirlooms
Haskell shared a touching story about a shelf of books her father had given her over the years, highlighting their bond over literature. She also reminisced about her mother’s ability to make art from anything, giving the example of a piece of pottery turned into a lamp that she has carried with her through every move. These personal stories beautifully illustrate how infusing meaning into a home can make it unique and reflective of those who live there.
Collections and Their Significance
We talked about collections and their place in home decor. Haskell stressed that collections serve as important storytelling elements within a home. She mentioned Natalie Steen’s house in Houston, which features a portrait of her grandmother made from an old photograph, textiles, and other materials—an artwork representing a rich and personal story.
Haskell and I also discussed the sometimes challenging task of melding styles when sharing a home with others. She shared how, in her previous home, she incorporated elements from both her own and her ex-husband’s childhoods to create a family narrative displayed in their library and dining room. This blend of personal histories makes a home feel more inclusive and interesting.
The Charm of Quality Linens
I am a self-confessed linen hoarder, so I couldn’t help but ask Haskell about her views on investing in good linens versus opting for more affordable options. Haskell admitted she loves both but sees great value in owning a few high-quality, heirloom pieces that elevate the home with their craftsmanship and longevity. However, she also cherishes fun, patterned bedding for its ability to quickly refresh a space. It’s about balance and finding joy in both ends of the spectrum.
Embracing Authenticity
We explored the concept of "authenticity" in design, a term Haskell admits is often overused but incredibly important. For Haskell, creating authentic spaces means listening to the house itself—its past, its architectural features, and its potential. She spoke passionately about honoring a home’s original details, as she did with her previous Craftsman home by preserving its original subway tile and beadboard. She emphasized that even when adding modern touches, it’s crucial to stay true to the house’s inherent character.
Nature as an Essential Element
A particularly fascinating part of our conversation was about the chapter dedicated to "Nature." Haskell explained that her love for integrating nature into her living spaces stems from her childhood, where gardens and the environment were always a part of the home experience. Whether it’s having an indoor garden or simply bringing in natural elements, Haskell believes that a connection to nature adds an essential layer to any home.
She shared a delightful story about her temporary apartment where she managed to keep three baby apple trees alive, eventually transplanting them to her new garden. This anecdote perfectly illustrated her point that no matter where you live, it's possible to bring a sense of nature into your space, fostering a nurturing and hopeful environment.
Developing Your Signature Style
Another vital topic we discussed was the concept of "Flair"—developing one's unique aesthetic over time. Haskell's advice is to consume a lot of visual material, like design books and magazines, and to travel and see different styles firsthand. By doing so, you gradually identify what you gravitate toward and what resonates with you. Developing a signature style is a journey, one that evolves as you continue to expose yourself to new inspirations and experiences.
Projects and Joy in the New Home
Haskell concluded our chat by sharing some exciting updates about her current home, including a recently completed bed nook in her office. Painted in a vibrant duck green by Farrow & Ball, the space looks like it’s always been part of the house and serves as an extra cozy spot for guests. She also mentioned a daring faux-paint project in her living room that turned out beautifully, adding a unique touch that many mistake for wallpaper.
As we wrapped up our conversation, I couldn't help but express how inspiring *The House Romantic* was for me. It sparked a flurry of ideas and a renewed excitement to dive into my own projects. Haskell's book isn’t just a guide to decorating; it’s an invitation to fall in love with your home, layer by layer, story by story. I hope you, too, find it as motivating and captivating as I did.
Images Provided By:
Charlotte Zacharkiw
